Primitive tent camping options near Pine Hill, New York feature several state forests with designated camping areas that require minimal fees or permits. Morgan Hill State Forest contains Spruce Pond Camping Area with ten free primitive sites, though campers need to secure permits before setting up. Camping at Charles E. Baker State Forest offers simple accommodations with basic picnic tables at established sites, plus surrounding forest areas suitable for dispersed camping following state guidelines. Winona State Forest provides quiet primitive sites marked by small black and yellow placards that can be challenging to locate.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: North Lake Reservoir Campground offers excellent lake fishing with 32 sites positioned around the water. According to camper J B., "Some are walk in right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, and clean. Make sure to take a left at the start of the lake, the right is all private road and you will have to turn around."
Winter sports access: Winona Forest CCC Camp serves as a hub for cold-weather activities. One visitor noted, "This is a hub for several snow mobile, cross country ski, and snow shoe trails. Several folks visited on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy the last bit of the snow."
Hiking trail exploration: Nature Lover's Paradise provides access to extensive trail networks. As Jake C. mentions, they "have an awesome spot to share with access to a vast network of trails in upstate New York."
Salmon fishing expeditions: When camping near Pulaski, fishing becomes a primary activity. Vito M. from Stoneys Pineville Campground says it's a "Great site for fishing" and a "great place on the river," while another camper stated they had "been out three years consecutively for salmon fishing."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront access: Hall Island State Forest offers views of Salmon River Reservoir from primitive sites. Thomas E. describes the experience: "There were fire ring set up a view of the water and for an able body person just a short walk up the path. Where you drive in and park your car can also be used as a campsite but that's right off the road."
Convenient accessible options: Spruce Pond Camping Area includes sites designed for all mobility levels. Janet R. reports, "One is actually handicapped accessible with its own accessible fishing landing and an easy access to the parking lot. There is a brand new outhouse with wide accessible doorway as well."
Morning lake views: Campers appreciate waking up to water vistas at North Lake Reservoir Campground. Ashlee C. shares, "Very remote and secluded. We got there after dark and it was beautiful to wake up to the view of the lake. Car camped, but there was enough room for a tent."
Free forest camping: The best tent camping near Pine Hill, New York often costs nothing. Matt A. from Charles E. Baker State Forest explains, "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods. There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use."
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most tent camping around Pine Hill requires self-sufficiency. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, Cameron noted, "Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table. Some litter, not too bad. No toilets. Bugs aren't an issue. Water access at a lovely nearby pond."
Site selection strategy: When choosing a spot at Spruce Pond, Neil L. advises, "The first few campsites are the best the further down you go the worse the sites get for tent set up. Smaller tents would be best do here. Great trees for hammock camping though."
Wildlife noise levels: Natural sounds can impact sleep quality. Rose S. from Spruce Pond Camping Area warns, "This was a nice spot, but the animals at the pond are very active and made a lot of noise in the night."
Permit requirements: Several camping areas require permits despite being free. Janet R. explains about Spruce Pond, "You may camp at this campground for free, but you do need a permit and should review the campground map to select your preferred site."
Tips for camping with families
Site accessibility considerations: For families with young children, choose carefully at Winona State Forest. Kevin C. notes the limitations: "The campsite was just feet off of Bargy Road. The only amenity was a fire ring made of rocks. The campsite appears to be the trailhead for a man-made trail."
Seasonal site availability: During shoulder seasons, amenities may be limited. Neil L. points out at Spruce Pond, "Toilet isn't set up yet but will once the season opens."
Water activities for kids: Families can enjoy paddling and fishing at several sites. Janet R. describes Spruce Pond: "The setting is scenic and peaceful, and you can easily paddle or fish on the pond."
Town amenities access: When camping lacks facilities, nearby towns offer solutions. Rachel P. from Hall Island State Forest mentions, "It's a short drive into town and to the local convenience store, which 'conveniently' enough, offers shower facilities and bathrooms for a fee."
Tips from RVers
Small RV considerations: While most sites near Pine Hill accommodate tents primarily, some work for compact RVs. Quade S. shares about Winona Forest CCC Camp: "I took my small RV here on its maiden voyage... If you camp here, you need to be self sufficient as there is no running water or electricity. There is a dollar general about 15 minutes away if you need some supplies."
Parking limitations: Most primitive sites have restricted vehicle access. Thomas E. from Hall Island State Forest explains, "Where you drive in and park your car can also be used as a campsite but that's right off the road... you can't hear the cars at night but you're not too far from the road maybe half a mile."
Supply planning: RVers must bring all necessities. As one camper at Winona Forest CCC Camp notes, with no hookups or water sources available, visitors should plan for at least 15-minute drives to the nearest supplies.
